The Best International Power Adapters
International power adapters are a traveler's best friend. With multiple prong shapes and sockets, these versatile wall plugs help keep us connected to the grid. And since smartphones are so essential to navigation, you're going to want a power adapter that's fast and safe. So, to make sure all the border-traversing folks out there stay juiced up, we decided to find the best of the best in international power adapters. Read on to discover our five favorites, from the most compact to the quietest unit.
International Power Adapter Travel Plug – 4 USB Ports Universal Work for 150 Countries – 120 Volt Adapter – Adapter Type C Type A Type G Type I f for UK Japan China EU Europe European By SublimeWare
SublimeWare is going Worldwide
For those in the market for a power adapter that does it all, definitely go with SublimeWare. This simple travel plug makes all the complicated adapters look like wasted plastic. With a versatile range of configurations, this baby can connect you to the grid in over 150 different countries around the world. And with four fast-charging USB ports, you can power up multiple devices simultaneously. Ideal for those with multiple countries on the itinerary, this pick makes switching between plug types easy as pie. Simply slide one of the side toggles and start charging. Best of all, SublimeWare sports a sublime price tag, so we say grab one while you can.
Pros
- Four independent USB ports allow you to charge multiple devices
- Easy-to-use design is intuitive for adapting plugs to different countries
- The small, compact size is great for tossing in a travel bag
- It’s a great value for the price
Cons
- The instruction manual is poorly written but operating the adapter is fairly intuitive
SAUNORCH Universal International Travel Power Adapter W/Smart High-Speed 2.4A 4xUSB Wall Charger, European Adapter, Worldwide AC Outlet Plugs Adapters for Europe, UK US, AU, Asia-Blue
Travel light, stay connected
No one wants to be encumbered with bulky bags while they travel. Yet, so many power adapters are massive behemoths that take up more space than we can afford to give them. So for all the folks out there that like to travel light, we recommend this compact unit from Saunorch. With dimensions of 2.5 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 2 inches thick, this little cube packs in a surprising amount of power. It sports four USB charging ports and a universal AC outlet so that you can charge up to five devices at a time. And as an added bonus, this pick sports a built-in smart chip that adjusts the current to maximize charging speeds.
Pros
- Small, compact size takes up the absolute minimum amount of space in your bag.
- Includes fuse to protect your devices from power surges.
- Four USB ports, AC outlet, and smart chip distribute power across devices for the fastest possible charge speeds.
Cons
- USB ports face downwards in some countries.
Foval International Travel Adapter Power Step Down 220v to 110v Voltage Converter with 4-port USB in UK European Italy Asia more than 150 Countries over the World
Foval is whisper quiet
Converting high-voltage energy sources to low-voltage energy sources is impossible without a little heat dissipation. That’s why so many of these converters sport a small fan to keep the unit from overheating. And since the fan is inevitable, we suggest going with something that’s discrete and quiet. This option from Foval hosts a small fan that’s barely audible while it works. And that’s not the only win for Foval. This adapter has short-circuit protection, multiple USB ports, two AC outlets, and a wide assortment of plugs.
Pros
- Numerous safeguards against over-charging, power surges, and overheating.
- Includes four USB ports and two AC outlets
- Thanks to the ball-bearing design, the fan is whisper quiet
- Includes 18-month manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind
Cons
- Only converts down from 220v to 110v, so don’t use this to power 110v devices in 220v countries.
Travel Adapter, Worldwide All in One Universal Power Adapter AC Plug International Wall Charger with Dual USB Charging Ports for US EU UK AUS Europe Cell Phone (White)
Travel on the cheap
Travelling can be really expensive. After the cost of the plane tickets, bus rides, hotels, and hostels, few people have enough money to splurge on an adapter. If that hits close to home, you might want to consider cutting costs with this effective option from LKY Digital. More than just the bare minimum, this option offers surge protection and USB charging. And although it doesn’t have anything fancy, like smart chips and voltage converters, this pick works in over 150 countries. Effective and affordable, the LKY Digital power adapter can fit into almost any travel budget.
Pros
- Costs less than a meal, so it’s a no-brainer for folks with limited funds.
- The simple design is easy to use.
- Features surge protection and two USB charging ports for mobile devices.
Cons
- The European plugs don’t lock into place.
APZEK Universal Travel Adapter, Upgraded 4000W High Power International Power Adapter with Auto Resetting Fuse, Dual USB Wall Charger, Travel Plug Adapter for Hair Dryer, EU UK AUS US 200+ Countries
A whole new meaning to "adapter"
In a commendable effort to unite the globe, APZEK has designed an adapter that works in over 200 countries. And not only is it vastly compatible across different power grids, but it’s also surprisingly easy to use. Thanks to the simple sliding toggles and clearly-marked plug adapters, APZEK wins additional points for ease-of-use. And for those that like to plug first and ask questions later, this pick sports an auto-resetting fuse that never needs replacing. Vastly compatible and shockingly inexpensive, the APZEK adapter helps travelers go global.
Pros
- It has the widest compatibility on the market, with over 200 compatible countries on the list.
- Many of the plugs include a ground wire for additional safety.
- Great value for the price
Cons
- The four USB ports are nice to have, but they don’t distribute the power across devices evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
In which countries can I use my adapter-of-choice?
Unfortunately, we can’t list all the different compatible countries for each adapter. The lists are simply too long, and some countries have caveats and special instructions. We recommend doing a bit of research to ensure that your adapter-of-choice will work. That being said, the adapters on our list are compatible in a vast range of countries, so you’re most likely covered wherever you go.
Can I use my hairdryer/microwave/TV with this adapter?
These are adapters, not converters. Do not use high-powered appliances in these adapters, they will either blow the fuse in the adapter, blow the fuse in the appliance, or blow the fuse in the entire building’s power box. If you absolutely must dry your hair via hairdryer, you’ll have to invest in a power converter.
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